Understanding Unstable Blood Pressure and Heart Health in Seniors
Please ask your question? Hello, I am 71 years old and have been experiencing very unstable blood pressure in recent years, sometimes rising above 200, which often leads me to the emergency room. In early January of this year, I was hospitalized for four days, and the doctor'...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Mr. Hsu, There are many reasons for unstable blood pressure, including sleep, emotions, climate, and medications. It is advisable to consult a cardiologist for an examination. The intermittent whitening of the fingertips may indicate peripheral vascular disease, often cause...[Read More] Understanding Unstable Blood Pressure and Heart Health in Seniors
Understanding Low Purine Diet After Heart Surgery: Importance and Benefits
May I ask a question? Hello Dr. Zhong: I am studying nutrition, and in my reference book on "Dietary Therapy," I came across the following passage: "For patients undergoing heart transplant surgery, it is advisable to adopt a low purine diet after surgery, as soon ...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello! We do not perform heart transplant surgeries, so we do not have experience with these issues. I recommend that you inquire with National Taiwan University Hospital or Cheng Yu Hospital. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chung Yu-Hsuan, Department of Cardiology, Taoyuan General ...[Read More] Understanding Low Purine Diet After Heart Surgery: Importance and Benefits
Understanding Myocardial Infarction: Risks, Stenting, and Recovery Tips
Myocardial infarction Myocardial infarction occurs when there is a blockage in the coronary arteries, leading to a reduction or cessation of blood flow to a part of the heart muscle. This condition is serious as it can result in permanent damage to the heart tissue and can be lif...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello Nina: Myocardial infarction refers to the blockage or narrowing of the blood vessels (coronary arteries) that supply blood to the heart, resulting in injury or necrosis of the heart muscle supplied by these vessels, leading to functional impairment or loss. We know that the...[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Infarction: Risks, Stenting, and Recovery Tips
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Management Tips
Cardiac issues? Dear Dr. Chung, I have a problem with mitral valve prolapse, and I started experiencing some symptoms since 1997. However, between 1997 and 2000, I only needed to take medication for one or two months to alleviate the symptoms, and I didn't have to continue ...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello, Miss Hsiao: Mitral valve prolapse is often associated with symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, such as palpitations, anxiety, sweating, and dizziness. The heart fluttering you mentioned is also a manifestation of autonomic nervous system dysregulation. You sh...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Management Tips
Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: When to Seek Medical Advice
Feeling the heartbeat? I've been feeling irregular heartbeats lately; sometimes they feel normal, but at times it feels like my heart is beating twice in a row. When it beats consecutively, it doesn't hurt, but it feels quite uncomfortable, and I also have the urge to c...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello, Xiao Wang. Irregular heartbeats or consecutive double beats may indicate arrhythmia. Please consult a cardiologist for further examination and treatment. Best wishes for your health, Dr. Chung Yu-Hsuan, Director of the Cardiology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of H...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Enlarged Tongue and Bite Marks: Symptoms and Causes
Oral issues? Hello, doctor. Thank you for your hard work. I would like to ask: my tongue appears to be very enlarged and has indentations along the sides. Additionally, there is a sensation of moisture in the area where the tongue meets the inner cheeks. What could these symptoms...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Internal Medicine
Hello! If the tongue appears enlarged, the first step is to rule out any systemic diseases, as certain congenital or metabolic disorders can cause macroglossia. The swelling near the cheeks should be clinically examined to determine if it is indeed edema. Best wishes for health f...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Tongue and Bite Marks: Symptoms and Causes
Understanding Cerebrovascular Diseases: Causes and Impacts
Cerebrovascular disease What is cerebrovascular disease?
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Miss Xiao Tong, Cerebrovascular disease refers to issues with the blood vessels in the brain, including cerebrovascular occlusion and hemorrhagic strokes, commonly known as strokes. Additionally, more minor conditions such as transient ischemic attacks or less common occurr...[Read More] Understanding Cerebrovascular Diseases: Causes and Impacts
Can I Take Viagra for Heart Rhythm Issues Caused by Autonomic Dysfunction?
Viagra Dear Dr. Zhong: I have arrhythmia caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Can I take Viagra?
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello Mr. Chen: If you wish to take Viagra, you must first consult a urologist, and it may also be necessary to see a cardiologist. Autonomic nervous system disorders and arrhythmias may be associated with other cardiac issues, so it is best to have a cardiologist evaluate you. W...[Read More] Can I Take Viagra for Heart Rhythm Issues Caused by Autonomic Dysfunction?
Managing Cough and Throat Irritation from Blood Pressure Medications
Cardiovascular disease Dr. Zhong: Hello, I have been taking high blood pressure medication Encine (Aspirin 100mg) and Sintec (5mg) for about 20 days, and I have developed a dry cough that is persistent and my throat is itchy, making it very uncomfortable. I informed my primary ca...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Mrs. Lin, Sintec is classified as an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor (ACEI), and approximately 30% of Chinese individuals may experience a dry cough as a side effect. Cozaar, on the other hand, is an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB) and has very few side effect...[Read More] Managing Cough and Throat Irritation from Blood Pressure Medications
Understanding Arrhythmia: Is Your Heart Racing Due to Autonomic Dysfunction?
Arrhythmia Doctor, I have a problem with autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Every time it occurs, I feel my heart racing as if there is an earthquake. Is this arrhythmia? What should I do?
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Ms. Li, The sensation of your heart racing is known as palpitations. Palpitations can occur due to a rapid heartbeat or an irregular heartbeat, both of which may indicate an arrhythmia. It is essential to have a thorough examination by a cardiologist to determine the cause....[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Is Your Heart Racing Due to Autonomic Dysfunction?
Is Viagra Safe for Heart Valve Prolapse and Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Viagra Hello Doctor: I have mitral valve prolapse and ankylosing spondylitis. My usual blood pressure is in the 60s over 90s. Recently, I have been drinking green tea frequently, and I'm unsure if this is appropriate for my condition. I have always taken my medication at 6:3...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello Mr. Lin! There are many reports indicating that green tea is beneficial for health, such as cancer prevention and preventing vascular sclerosis; however, the principle is that the concentration of the tea should not be too high, as it may stimulate the heart and cause disco...[Read More] Is Viagra Safe for Heart Valve Prolapse and Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: Is It Atrial Fibrillation?
Irregular heartbeat I checked my pulse and noticed that my heartbeat feels irregular, but I don't experience any discomfort in my heart. I also don't exercise often, yet my stamina is significantly worse than that of others. Does this count as arrhythmia?
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello! If the pulse is irregular, it may indicate arrhythmia, but it may not necessarily be felt by the patient. Confirmation should be made by a physician using a stethoscope or an electrocardiogram (ECG). Arrhythmia is not directly related to physical fitness; there are many ty...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: Is It Atrial Fibrillation?
Can Heart Valve Patients Safely Consume Alcohol-Based Supplements?
Is it safe to take supplements? Hello Dr. Zhong: I am a person with mild mitral valve prolapse. I experience significant pain during my menstrual period. I would like to ask if I can consume tonic foods like "Shaojiao Chicken" and other supplements that contain alcohol?...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello! Individuals with mitral valve prolapse accompanied by chest pain should avoid spicy foods, as these can increase heart rate and potentially exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid foods containing alcohol. Best wishes for your health from Dr. Chung Yu-Hsua...[Read More] Can Heart Valve Patients Safely Consume Alcohol-Based Supplements?
Understanding Heart Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Discomfort in the heart? Hello Dr. Zhong: I am a person with mild mitral valve prolapse. Recently, I have been experiencing chest tightness and shortness of breath, along with discomfort in my heart area. I am on medication, but the situation remains the same the next day. Could ...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Ms. Amanda, Mitral valve prolapse commonly refers to the prolapse of the mitral valve and is frequently seen in young women. The exact cause is unknown, and it often presents with symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, including chest tightness, palpitations, s...[Read More] Understanding Heart Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Aortic Regurgitation: Symptoms and Health Implications
Heart valve issues Hello Dr. Zhong, I would like to ask you about the effects of aortic regurgitation on the body. I was hospitalized for a month due to bacterial endocarditis after catching a cold on April 21, and I was diagnosed with moderate regurgitation on May 23. Sometime...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello! You have been diagnosed with bacterial endocarditis affecting the aortic valve, complicated by moderate aortic regurgitation. This is a more complicated condition; moderate blood backflow may present some symptoms, and you might consider discussing medication options with ...[Read More] Understanding Aortic Regurgitation: Symptoms and Health Implications
Why Are My Lips Always Dull? Understanding Heart Health and Arrhythmia
Why are my lips always a dull color? My concerns go beyond just the topic; I also have a slight arrhythmia. What should I do?
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello Mr. Zeng, Regarding arrhythmias, there are many types; some require treatment, some need further investigation, and others can simply be monitored. I recommend that you consult a cardiologist for a more thorough evaluation. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chung Yu-Hsuan,...[Read More] Why Are My Lips Always Dull? Understanding Heart Health and Arrhythmia
Understanding the Side Effects of Cardiovascular Medications and Their Impact on Health
Cardiovascular disease Dr. Zhong: I take three types of medications daily: hormone replacement therapy, hypertension medication (Aspirin 100 mg, Enalapril 5 mg), and medications for chronic conditions (Sulpiride 50 mg, Propranolol 10 mg, Alprazolam 0.5 mg, Sertraline (Zoloft)). A...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Mrs. Lin: The Sintec 5mg mentioned in your letter is an antihypertensive medication, specifically an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. One of its side effects is that approximately 30% of patients may experience a cough. Aspirin 100mg is an antithrombotic medication;...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Cardiovascular Medications and Their Impact on Health
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Attention
Chest pain? Doctor, I would like to ask, last night while sleeping on my side, I felt discomfort in my left chest when breathing, and it felt like my breathing was not very smooth. I have not felt well all day today, often needing to take deep breaths, and I experience sharp pain...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear A-Jing, According to the letter, you should promptly visit the hospital for an examination. The physician will determine whether a chest X-ray or an electrocardiogram (ECG) is necessary for further treatment. Wishing you and your family peace and happiness, Dr. Chung Y...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Heart Palpitations and Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Solutions
It's hard to breathe! Hello Doctor: My heart has been racing and beating heavily for about two months now. Sometimes it beats heavily, and sometimes lightly. When it beats heavily, I feel very short of breath. This happens occasionally, and sometimes it doesn't. During ...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Dear Milk Classmate, The issue mentioned in your letter is likely a type of arrhythmia. It is important to consult a cardiologist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. They will provide you with further detailed examinations and care. Wishing you and your family peac...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations and Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Rheumatic Heart Disease: Post-Surgery Care and Concerns
Rheumatic heart disease Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease 16 years ago, but since the condition was not very severe, I managed my blood pressure with antihypertensive medications. However, this year my condition worsened, leading to an emergency hospitali...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Cardiology
Hello Andy, If the artificial valve is a porcine valve, it typically needs to be replaced after about 10 years. If it is a mechanical valve, it can be used for a lifetime, but lifelong anticoagulation with Coumadin is required. All artificial valves need to be well-maintained an...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatic Heart Disease: Post-Surgery Care and Concerns